In perhaps one of the fastest political recalls of our times, BJP withdrew the membership of controversial chief of Ram Sene Pramod Muthalik.
Following strong outrage against the party's decision to bring the right wing leader into their fold, from many of their own followers, may have prompted immediate action.
Reports suggest that the central leadership did not take very kindly to the decision of Muthalik's inclusion, which is believed to have been done without their knowledge.
Muthalik shot to fame in 2009, following his attack on women at a pub in Mangalore on grounds of 'morality'. He was arrested following the incident, but remained insistent that his actions were aimed at “protecting the women”.
This sparked the infamous nationwide 'Pink Chaddi campaign' against the Ram Sene's action.
So, it comes as no surprise that even many among the party's dedicated followers tracing BJP's clarion call of development, would be angered at Muthalik's inclusion.
In no time following the decision, the hashtag #NoMuthalik took social media by storm, with the otherwise ardent BJP supporters urging party leaders to reconsider the decision, some even with threats to withdraw their votes.
A petition on change.org was also already floated on the matter.
Many BJP leaders, such as Manohar Parrikar, too, expressed, disapproval of this move.
The withdrawal, on the other hand, has been received with much jubilation by the BJP supporters and is seen as a sign of solidarity to the cause of women's development.
